Police issued a stern warning to criminal syndicates that they will not relent in their efforts to safeguard the safety and security of the country’s citizens.
This cautionary message follows a successful operation on Friday, where the SAPS’s Directorate of Priority Crime Investigations and specialised units dismantled a heavily armed and dangerous gang believed to be responsible for a series of cash-in-transit heists in Limpopo.
According to Police Ministry spokesperson, Lirandzu Themba, the operation was intelligence-led and steered officers to a safe house in Makhado Limpopo, where they intended to apprehend the gang.
However, said Themba instead of surrendering, the gang opened fire on the police, resulting in a 90-minute exchange of gunfire.
In the end, 18 suspects, including two females, were fatally shot, and one police officer was injured.
Police Minister, General Bheki Cele, commended the SAPS for their bravery and urged them to continue executing their mandate of protecting the public and enforcing the law.
He also cautioned criminals police would respond appropriately to any level of criminality and use all legal means at their disposal to safeguard citizens and their property.
The incident coincides with the start of Police Safety Month in the country, and the Ministry encourages police officers to continue pushing back against criminals while ensuring their safety during the execution of their duties.
The Police Minister emphasized that the SAPS is committed to fighting against criminal syndicates, and this recent operation is evidence of their dedication to their mandate.
He urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the SAPS, working with them to ensure a safer South Africa.
Be First to Comment